The big wind-down

One final push and it's all over. Tomorrow, most schools are closed and the shopping centers will be packed with kids, last-minute shoppers and people-watchers.

Today seemed a bit slower about town. Maybe folks are taking a breather before that last-minute run. Shopping will be early out of the gate tomorrow and blast through late, very late. Saturday is Christmas Eve. Malls and stores, including supermarkets, are shutting down early.

Retailers are anticipating big traffic on Friday. Fingerlakes Mall, near Auburn, is opening at 7 a.m. and running to midnight. I think they'll be busy.

On to e-mails, directed blogside:

From Gina Speno, the general manager of Fingerlakes Mall:

"Hey Bob:

The 'blog' is great – however we can’t help but notice you're not traveling west. So, just a head's up – the Fingerlakes Mall is open this Friday to midnight. A great time for you to come finish your shopping during our Midnight Madness."

Two plugs in one blog entry. Not bad, Gina. I'll be rolling your way at some point. And thanks!

From Angela:

"You are dead on with your (blog entry) on Around the World in ShoppingTown. The owner's knowledge of every item in his store, his enthusiasm, friendliness and his level of customer service is not only exemplary, but almost never seen anymore. This is one store that deserves to be around a long, long time."

Word. It's a most impressive operation. ShoppingTown is in for some big changes next year. I just hope the owners realize it's good to have local stores in the mall, too.

From Janice Oakes:

"Re: Media Play. I have a Media Play Replay card that has lots of points on it. How do I get redemption of points? I also had to buy this Good Customer card and it doesn't expire until 2007. Any rebates in sight?"

My understanding is Media Play has been cooperative on redeeming the points. If I were you, I'd hussle on over to one of the two local stores and make these same inquiries. Again, I've been in the stores a few times this week and the staff remains cooperative and helpful.

From Shurkahnz:

" I agree with you about Chase-Pitkin and Media Play going out in style and I also want to know why Carousel mall does not have anyone offering photo mugs and mouse pads this year? I know they have them at ShoppingTown. After they take your order they say come back in two hours. When I bought them at Carousel I never had to wait more than 15-20 mins for the mugs even at the busiest time. Carousel needs the photo mugs back."

It's too late for this year. Maybe next year?

Folks, I'll try to get to some of your other e-mails. I've got a stockpile. Some answers I can't get until next week.